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South African Ultra Luxury Tour of a Lifetime

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4.989795

4.99 out of 5 stars

98 reviews

This trip is designed to showcase Africa’s finest and most luxurious experiences, as a signature tour for Zicasso’s 5-year anniversary. Private tours with the best guides take you through Cape Town and the Winelands. Embark on the uniquely glamorous Rovos Rail. Enjoy superb game viewing at Royal Malewane, with a lifetime of memories captured by a professional photographer.

General Information

Trip Highlights

Let the best safari guides lead you to thrillingly close encounters with wildlife during your stay at the ultra-luxurious Royal Malewane

Be accompanied by a professional wildlife photographer, who will document your extraordinary wildlife experiences in photos and videos

Take a journey on the uniquely luxurious Rovos Rail train to Pretoria

Stay at La Residence, rated No. 1 Hotel in the World (Conde Nast Traveler Reader’s Choice 2013) and indulge in an interactive gastronomic experience with the chef

Surprise your palate with sumptuous taste sensations created by chocolate and wine pairings

OTHER HIGHLIGHTS

Enjoy the convenience and interaction with experienced and knowledgeable private guides, handpicked for their excellent service

Experience the highlights of Cape Town, including the iconic Table Mountain

Walk with the endangered African penguins at Boulders Beach

Enjoy estate visits, wine tastings and incredible cuisine

Visit the Cheetah Outreach Program in Paardeberg and meet the resident cheetahs

Trip at a Glance

(Day 1) Cape Town—Arrival and Check-In at the Ellerman House(Day 2) Cape Town—Tour Robben Island and Visit Table Mountain(Day 3) Cape Town— Tour the Cape Peninsula and Visit the Penguins of Boulders Beach(Day 4) Cape Town to the Winelands—Drive to La Residence in Franschoek(Day 5) The Winelands—Explore Wine Country Estates, with Tastings and Fine Cuisine(Day 6) The Winelands to Pretoria—Board the Rovos Rail(Day 7) In Transit—Travel via historic Matjiesfontein and Kimberley to Pretoria(Day 8) Pretoria to Thornybush—Fly to Royal Malewane Private Game Reserve(Day 9) Royal Malewane—Enjoy Intimate Encounters with Africa’s Big Five(Day 10) Royal Malewane—Discover the Secrets and Wonders of the African Bush(Day 11) Royal Malewane to Johannesburg—Flight to Johannesburg; Depart for:

Detailed Description

Zicasso is proud to feature this trip as one of our 5 Year Anniversary Special Tours.

“Designed for the most discerning luxury travelers, this tour is loaded with special experiences that characterize Africa’s finest – from extraordinary wildlife encounters to the best guides, food and wine, and most luxurious accommodations,” notes Brian Tan, founder and CEO of Zicasso.

“The three days of safari at Royal Malewane is one example of excellence you’ll experience. It’s rare for a lodge or hotel to surpass all expectations – from the suites to the service, food, expertise of guides, and everything else. For me, Royal Malewane is such a place. I rank their head ranger, Juan Pinto, the best guide I’ve ever had, anywhere in the world!”

Beginning in Cape Town’s uniquely elegant Ellerman House, that perches on the slopes of Lion’s Head overlooking the ocean and Robben Island in the distance, you have the city and its many attractions at your fingertips. Explore a plethora of sites in this incredibly scenic city in the company of a private guide who will show you magnificent wine country estates, splendid views from the top of Table Mountain, the dramatic coastline of Cape Point and much more.

Next, you visit the sublime La Residence, deep in the heart of Franschhoek’s wine country. Rated one of the best hotels in the world, this is the prefect place to soak in the uniquely Provencal atmosphere of this beautiful region. The chef will take you on a culinary journey incorporating market-fresh produce and the finest vintages and varietals in an extraordinary gastronomic experience that will vie only with the spectacular scenery and setting for your attention.

Board the Rovos Rail train as the journey continues northward. Harkening back to the grandiose old days of railway travel, the train is fitted to an incredible level of style and comfort while maintaining a delightful old-world elegance. The two-day journey includes stops at the historic towns of Matjiesfontein and Kimberley, before continuing to Pretoria, in the north of South Africa.

A short chartered flight then takes you to the private Thornybush Reserve, adjacent to the world-famous Kruger Park. Royal Malewane offers the pinnacle of safari luxury and style in the incredible environment where exotic African species roam freely. No level of service, comfort or convenience is compromised here, while expert teams of guides and trackers reveal the magic and mystery of the African bush. A professional photographer will accompany you to capture the highlights of your safari in pictures and video, as well as teach you how to make the most of your camera. Encountering big game and cats in intimate and insightful ways, you will learn the secrets of the wilderness and feel the beating pulse of wild Africa.

Places Visited

Departure Dates

Dates are flexible and customizable for private departures.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Welcome to Cape Town

On arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be met by your private guide and driven to Ellerman House. Along the way, notice the dominating massif of Table Mountain looming over the city that nestles on its slopes, and the glittering Atlantic Ocean beyond. Ellerman House sits perched on the slopes of Lion’s Head in the exclusive suburb of Bantry Bay, with sweeping ocean and city views that are truly breathtaking. The elegance and sophistication of this unique property are complimented by the welcoming and professional staff, and you will quickly find yourself at home here. The spa, gym, restaurant and whiskey bar ooze with refinement that is enhanced by the spectacular art collection and stupendous views, making this one of the most romantic destinations in Cape Town.

Day 2: Explore Robben Island and Table Mountain

Pass through the vibrant and colorful Victoria & Alfred Waterfront to board the ferry that takes you to Robben Island, formerly the site of Nelson Mandela’s imprisonment and now a living museum. Guided by former inmates, you will be given insight into the lives of the activists who were incarcerated her. Visit Mandela’s cell where he spent 18 years, and learn of the troubled history of South Africa’s apartheid past. Returning across the bay, you will be treated to a spectacular view of the city and the looming bulk of Table Mountain. Browse the interesting shops and absorb the bustle of this working harbor before stopping for lunch at one of the multitude of fantastic restaurants along the Waterfront.

Ride up through the city to the cableway that delivers you to the top of Table Mountain. The cable car rotates as it ascends, giving you an awesome wrap-around perspective of the mountains and city below. Arriving at the summit, 3,000 ft. above the sea, a network of pathways lead you to a series of viewpoints where you can gaze down at the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, the Twelve Apostles, Lion’s Head and the ocean stretching off to the horizon. On the other side, the mountains of the Helderberg and the wine country are visible rearing up dramatically in the distance. Keep a lookout for the rock hyraxes, or dassies, as they are also known, that live here. These cute and furry animals look like cuddly toys, but are actually related to elephants!

Descend the mountain and return to the warm embrace of Ellerman House, where you can freshen up before dinner at your choice of one of the city’s excellent restaurants.

Day 3: Take the Cape Peninsula Tour

Together with your guide, drive along the spectacular coastal route of Chapman’s Peak Drive to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Keeping an eye out for antelope, ostriches and baboons along the way, you arrive at the southernmost point of the peninsula, where a lighthouse stands sentinel over rocky crags pounded by the surf far below. Walk along the path to the viewing points and imagine you can envisage the two oceans, the Atlantic and the Indian, mingling their waters at the tip of the continent.

Driving back along the False Bay coastline, you will find several quaint seaside towns to explore along the way, and the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach is a delightful experience. While clumsy on the land, these birds become a picture of effortless grace when they “fly” through the water! Take a wander around the historic naval village of Simons Town, which is steeped in many tales of sea-faring adventures and anecdotes. The nearby Kalk Bay Harbour is used by many colorful working fishing boats, and the fishermen sell their catch at stalls upon the wharf, while seals splash and roll for scraps in the water below. Harbour House overlooks the bustle and color of Kalk Bay and is an excellent venue for a delicious seafood lunch accompanied by a wonderful wine list.

Finally take a scenic meander back to Cape Town via the colorful beach houses of Muizenberg and the oldest wine estates of the country in Constantia, stopping for a tasting or two along the way.

Day 4: The magnificent wine country

Stellenbosch and Somerset West represent the heartland of the Cape’s Winelands, set at the foot of the soaring Jonkershoek and Helderberg Mountains. Offering hundreds of estates to choose from, there are a few delightful surprises in the region.

The Cheetah Outreach program in Paardevlei offers visitors the opportunity to interact with these magnificent cats and to learn more about the plight of these critically endangered animals. You can also discover the Turkish Anatolian Shepherd breeding program, where these dogs are trained for use by famers to reduce predator and livestock conflict.

The Waterford Wine Estate stands out among the multitude for its unique chocolate and wine pairing experience, which is a taste sensation like no other! In the picturesque and welcoming atmosphere of the estate, meet the winemaker Kevin Arnold and chocolatier Richard von Geusau’s fusions of chocolate and wine that melt on the tongue in an astonishing combination of flavors that will have you begging for more!

With your taste buds singing, continue through the spectacular scenery of the wine country, visiting several choice estates along the way. The historic estate of Vergelegen offers world-class wine tastings overlooking the garden containing impressive 400-year old camphor trees, planted by the founder of the estate. Babylonstoren is an architectural and landscaping masterpiece, which provides you with the opportunity to wander the fascinating produce and ornamental gardens before indulging in a decadent wine tasting or luncheon.

Drive over the Helshoogte Pass with its two estates, Tokara and Delaire Graff basking in tremendous wraparound views of vineyards, mountains and ocean before descending into the Franschoek Valley.

Franschhoek (French Corner) is the undisputed wine and culinary capital of South Africa. With its uniquely French atmosphere that’s reminiscent of Provence, there are no fewer than eight award-winning restaurants gathered in the valley, with the restaurant at La Residence being an outstanding choice.

Arriving at this delightfully eclectic hotel, which is the handiwork of an interior designer and an art historian, you will find it to be grandly elegant, sumptuous and quirky at the same time, set within a location of jaw-dropping, natural beauty.

Day 5: The La Residence Culinary Experience

Join the chef of La Residence on a gastronomic adventure through Franschhoek as he gathers the fresh produce of the region for your culinary indulgence. With the best products in the country available here, you will find the cheeses, olive oils, herbs, vegetables and fruits bursting with flavor, not to mention the charcuterie, for your unparalleled gourmet experience. Stop along the way at one of the estates for a delicious lunch and tasting of exquisite wines to refresh and fortify your endeavors before returning to La Residence, suitably prepared for your evening’s indulgence.

In the show kitchen, either join the chef in his preparations, or simply relax in the candlelight with a glass of excellent wine as he prepares the feast before your eyes.

Enjoy the scrumptious fruits of your labors in the baroque elegance of the dining room or out on the terrace, sipping a fine vintage and giving in to absolute sensory pleasure.

Days 6 & 7: The Rovos Rail

Depart Franschhoek with a fond farewell and drive to Cape Town station, where the Rovos Rail train awaits you. Blending pre-war elegance and refinement with modern amenities and service, this is the ultimate way to travel slowly through South Africa’s ‘World In One Country.’ The suites are masterfully designed for space and comfort and are some of the largest in the world. Enjoy the privacy and exclusivity of this sophisticated mode of travel as you take in the splendid views from the large picture windows. Traveling through the dramatic Cape mountains, you come to the quaint Victorian town of Matjiesfontein, preserved since 1890 when it was established as a refreshment stop by Mr. Logan. A fascinating museum on the platform charts the multifaceted history of the town and surrounds.

The scenery then transforms as the Karoo rolls out before you. Rocky and arid, the region boasts incredible geological formations and vistas that stretch on forever. The train halts for a tour of Kimberley, a former diamond-rush town in the late 1800s, and includes a visit to the Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole, the largest man-made excavation on Earth. The journey then passes the rolling landscape and mountains of the Free State before emerging on the golden plains of the Highveld, where the train pulls in to Pretoria.

Days 8 - 10: Royal Malewane: Into the wilderness of Thornybush Private Reserve

A charter flight from nearby Johannesburg takes you to the renowned wilderness region of the Lowveld, home of the famed Kruger National Park and the adjacent Thornybush Private Reserve.

Meeting you at the airstrip, your guide will take you on a short game drive to Royal Malewane. Set in a stunning location, deep in the African bush, this lodge will simply take your breath away. Six palatial suites each feature air-conditioning, an infinty pool and a private verandah to enjoy the sights and sounds of the surrounding wilderness. Raised walkways link the suites to the impressively elegant main buildings and spa. No element of comfort or modern amenity is spared here, and the level of service and cuisine are of a world-class standard, located in a wilderness setting like no other.

The rejuvenating spa treatments feature hydrotherapy using mineral-rich waters drawn from the springs deep below the reserve, guaranteed to soothe and revitalize you while relaxing in the warmth of the midday hours. Coupled with exceptional cuisine and attentive service from the friendly staff, Royal Malewane delivers unrivalled big game encounters in one of the most luxurious settings imaginable.

Along with your highly experienced guide and tracker team, you will be accompanied on game drives by a highly-accomplished wildlife photographer who will document this safari journey of a lifetime for you. A high quality video and coffee table book of your journey will be produced. If you feel like taking your own vacation photos as well, he’ll also be available to teach you how to best use your camera for wildlife photography.

Venturing out on twice-daily game drives, you will encounter a plethora of animals and birds here. While the Big Five are sought-after animals to spot (elephant, buffalo, rhino, lion and leopard), there is so much more to absorb and experience than a mere checklist of species. Allow the magic of the wilderness to embrace you, and you will find an altogether holistic experience that is quite unlike any other. Your guide and tracker will draw on their immense knowledge and experience of the area to show you the intimate secrets of the wild, sharing their expertise in a manner that is both informative and engaging.

Up close and personal encounters with a variety of animals are bound to happen, and thrilling experiences await you in this most special of reserves. The leopards here are renowned for their relaxed behavior, where they regally go about their lives disdainfully ignoring the clicking of cameras with the practiced ease of Hollywood celebrities. Nothing can prepare you for the awe you will feel at your first sighting of a pride of lions: the sheer presence of these magnificent cats, coupled with rippling muscles and their haunting amber eyes, will send a shiver down your spine.

Stopping at a scenic spot to allow you to stretch your legs, your guide will produce a hamper of ice-cold drinks and delicious snacks from the kitchen. In the last light of the setting sun, you gaze out over this spectacular wilderness, at peace with your surroundings as you toast the magnificence of an African sunset.

In the gathering dusk, you drive back to the lodge with the aid of a spotlight to seek out nocturnal animals as they emerge into the night. Glowing eyes reveal civets and genets moving acrobatically through the trees, while close to the ground the red eyes of a spotted hyena come into view. These much-maligned animals are as fierce a predator as their competitors the lions, and with their easy loping stride they can tirelessly cover miles in pursuit of prey.

Returning to the lodge, you find it ablaze with light from lanterns, and the sumptuous colors of the furniture and fabrics glow richly, welcoming you home.

An indulgent feast awaits you for dinner, accompanied by the best wines from the sensational offerings in the cellar. As the sounds of the African night serenade you from the outside, enjoy a convivial evening listening to easy conversation and tales of adventures in the bush from your guide.

On one of the evenings, you’ll be treated to a dinner at Royal Malewane’s Bedouin tent, beautifully decked with Moroccan lanterns and Persian rugs, just a short drive away into the African bush.

Moving out to the fireplace for a final nightcap, marvel at the shower of stars above you before slipping off to your suite. Drift off in blissful slumber, while the distant roars of a lion and the whoops of a hyena echo through the stillness of the night.

Day 11: Homeward bound

After three nights of magical African encounters, thrilling game drives, blissful spa treatments and wonderful cuisine, it is finally time to depart Royal Malewane. During the flight to Johannesburg, where the journey ends, reminisce on the magical experiences that South Africa has given you. You are now one of the select few to have enjoyed the pleasures of Cape Town and its wine country, the utterly unique Rovos Rail, and of course, the sheer excitement of encountering the Big Five in the wild.

Price

What's Included

3 nights at Ellerman House in Cape Town in a deluxe house room inclusive of breakfast

2 nights at La Residence Villas in the Winelands in a luxury room inclusive of breakfast

2 nights on Rovos Rail – Cape Town to Pretoria in a deluxe suite inclusive of all meals, selected beverages and off-train excursions

3 nights at Royal Malewane Game Lodge inclusive of meals, beverages and included activities

Dedicated guide and vehicle throughout the 5 days at Cape Town and Winelands

Professional photographer during your three night stay at Royal Malewane so your safari of a lifetime is expertly captured in photos and video

Royal Malewane dinner at a Bedouin tent

Internal flights within South Africa

Seamless private ground handling

VIP airport transfers in luxury vehicles

Guiding: The Cape Town and Winelands portion of your trip is fully and privately guided. This includes a vehicle and guide at your disposal every day, throughout the day. Our guides are not drivers, they are highly-experienced and knowledgeable guides who will be as present or discreet as you want, take you on tours, make suggestions and changes at a whim or as required by weather and other factors. The safari portion is fully guided by expert rangers who are amongst the finest in the industry.

Activities: Each day is yours to spend as you wish. These are merely suggestions of things to do to get the most out of your trip. We are at your beck and call. If you want to be left alone, just tell us. If you want us to take you to some place or make a suggestion just let us know.

Options: Anything suggested here can be adjusted to make sure this is the ideal experience for you. The final choices will be based on our discussions.

Price

$17,000 per person based on double occupancy

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